Worthy of the name legend: Henry Mancini

Today the word "legend" and "iconic" seems to refer to any Johnny-Come-Lately nobody. This Nostalgic Rambler posting is about a true legend, icon and genius, Mr. Henry Mancini.

 Mr. Mancini did a lot of music for film and television but it was not the average melody to be forgotten. Many songs are now legendary and one of a kind.  Back when postage was only 37 cents we got to celebrate Mancini with a stamp. There were so many hits they couldn't fit them all on the stamp. Notice the Pink Panther on the left of the stamp. He wrote that theme, too.

 

Although the movie is one of the strangest stories I've ever seen, the music to Breakfast at Tiffany's is magnificent. The opening credits with Audrey and Mancini's music is just lovely and when she sings the song "Moon River" during the movie, it is film magic.

 

I will have to do a blog sometime on lyric genius Johnny Mercer, another one of my favorites. The lyrics to The Days of Wine and Roses are achingly beautiful and Mancini's music is iconic.

 

Mancini and Mercer were Academy Award winners, but everyone knows that, don't they? Probably not anymore...that's why we're here!  I like these pics. Mancini guested on Lawrence Welk and the audience loved it. Pic on right is Mancini with Mercer.

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 I had the privilege of seeing Henry Mancini in concert in Sarasota Florida years ago. He was so easy going and likeable. He said something along these lines. "People tell me they hear my music in elevators. Don't feel sorry for me. Every time they play my songs in those elevators, I get paid..."

 Henry's legacy is alive on the radio, in film, on tv and on his webpage.  If you don't know about this American genius, you can find a slew of info about him there.